Description
What is Vital Wheat Gluten?
Extracted from wheat flour, wheat gluten is a type of protein. Wheat flour dough is washed with water until all the starch is removed and only gluten strands are left behind. Once dried and powdered, this process leaves behind a concentrated protein powder, Vital wheat gluten (a.k.a seitan).
ALLERGEN WARNING
It’s important to note that vital wheat gluten can cause issues for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Therefore, if you are avoiding gluten, you should look for gluten-free alternatives or products made with gluten-free grains.
Vital wheat gluten has several potential health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
- Rich in protein: Vital wheat gluten is a concentrated source of plant-based protein, with a protein content of around 75-80%. Protein is an essential nutrient that is important for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting immune function.
- Low in fat: Vital wheat gluten is naturally low in fat, making it a good choice for those looking to reduce their overall fat intake.
- May improve gut health: Gluten is a type of protein that is broken down in the gut by enzymes called proteases. Some research suggests that consuming gluten may stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve gut health.
- May help manage blood sugar: Some studies have shown that consuming protein can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- May aid in weight loss: Because vital wheat gluten is high in protein and low in fat, it may help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight loss efforts.
How to use Vital Wheat Gluten?
Using it in baking improves the dough’s texture, rise, elasticity and shape. In addition, vital wheat gluten is beneficial in making bread with whole grain flour, which tends to produce denser loaves. Adding gluten and wheat increases the texture and protein content of pizza dough, bagels, and pretzels.
When mixed with water, pure wheat gluten works great as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan cooking. Because it absorbs flavour and shapes easily, it can easily be used to mimic the texture and flavour of meat. This high-protein flour supplement makes it easy to make seitan or veggie burgers.
Here are some recipe links to start making your own meatless -meat variations and even high-protein bread and pizza dough!